A study of the nature and function of the Bible as Scripture in the Christian church. Students learn about the historical formation and translation of the Bible, its various types of literature, theories of authority and inspiration, methods of interpretation, and used in worship, education, spiritual formation, pastoral care, and moral decision-making.

BS 120 - Introduction to the Old Testament

A general survey of the literature and theology of the Old Testament, including the history and religion of ancient Israel.

BS 130 - Introduction to the New Testament

A general survey of the literature and theology of the New Testament, including the life and ministry of Jesus and the earliest Christian communities.

BS 140 - Interpreting the Bible for Preaching and Teaching

A workshop on how to exegete and theologically interpret biblical texts for preparing and delivering a sermon, teaching a Sunday School class, and facilitating a small-group Bible study and discussion.

THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

TS 210 - Christian Theology I

A study of the foundations and contents of the systematic theology of the Christian church, examining the doctrines of God, revelation, the Bible, creation, humankind, and sin.

TS 220 - Christian Theology II

A continuation of Christian systematic theology, examining the doctrines of Jesus Christ, the eschatological Kingdom of God, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the church, and the consummation of God's mission in history.

TS 230 - History and Theology of the Church

A historical survey of the Christian church, focusing on its major theological movements, issues, controversies, and developments. While attention is given to significant events, personalities, and dates, the primary interest is the role and functions of theology in the formation of the church's faith and life.

TS 240 - Theology and Ethics for the Church

An examination of the contemporary theological and ethical issues the church is facing in the post-modern world.

MINISTRY STUDIES

MS 410 - Formation for Ministry

An in-depth study of the vocation of Christian ministry, and of the individual person who is called to live and practice it. The focus is on how this unique vocation is discerned and exercised by the minister, as well as how it forms and shapes the minister.

MS 320 - Theology and Practice of Ministry I

A study of the local Christian congregation and its core ministries of worship, preaching, education, spiritual formation, fellowship, pastoral care and counseling, evangelism, and social ministry. Practical training is provided in each of these ministry areas, enabling the minister to carry out the various roles and responsibilities of Christian ministry, thus serving the church faithfully.

MS 330 - Theology and Practice of Ministry II

A study of the local Christian congregation's hidden emotional, spiritual, and political dynamics, as well as its organization and administration. Special attention will be given to the challenges and opportunities of leadership in this complex, often confusing and conflicted, setting.

MS 340 - Public Ministry of the Church

An examination of how the church exists, functions, and is viewed and treated in the public square. Emphasis is given to the expression and application of Christian beliefs, doctrines, and values through the practices called "missions," social ministry, outreach, and evangelism. How does the Christian community relate to the state, engage in culture, and address matters of society and culture at large? Students are equipped to develop a public theology, and to serve the world as public theologians.